G.SKILL Trident 2x1GB DDR3-1600MHz Memory Review

Introduction:

Computer memory has always been a crucial item when building a blazing fast system. There are many factors you need to take into consideration when choosing your modules other than speed alone. In the past, you merely picked what was compatible with your system. However, now you have to look at the speeds that they offer in addition to their the required, latencies that they use to reach those blistering speeds, and the cooling solution. Yes, I said cooling solution, since with the speeds that memory modules reach these days, cooling is no longer optional, but rather necessary. One last consideration I haven't mentioned yet is the capacity. What size modules do you need? 2GB, 4GB, or more? Today we are going to answer that question and more while taking a look at a new set of memory from G.Skill called the Trident. This is a 2GB set rated at 1600MHz with enhanced latencies of 8-8-8-21. When we look at the performance later on, it's important to keep in mind that it is only a 2GB set, and thus should not be marked down when compared to 4GB sets.

Closer Look:

The modules came to us in a retail blister pack with a nice "shine" to them; a very futuristic look. The front of the blister back is completely clear, allowing you to get a nice look at the design of the heatspreader, which is crafted with maximum cooling in mind. The back of the blister pack has the support contact information for G.Skill, as well as a sticker showing the model number of F3-12800CL8D-2GBTD and the specifications of the memory.

Once the modules are out of the packaging, you get a nice look at the unique heatspreader that G.Skill chose for its Trident series memory. The heatspreader is comprised of a green PC Board with a black aluminum heatspreader. The heatspreader uses a unique fin design that protrudes from the top and is spaced to allow the natural airflow from the case to pass over them and draw away the warm heat. This set is a 2 x 1GB dual-channel set rated for 1600MHz with enhanced latencies of 8-8-8-21 at 1.65 volts.